Scan QR Codes Created in LabArchives Inventory
If the QR Code was downloaded from the Inventory Item Labels tab, it can be scanned from a mobile device using the Inventory Camera feature. Once scanned, the Inventory Item view will display on your mobile device where you will then have full access to all Inventory features including all the details about the item, the ability to use the item and update the quantity used, as well as search to locate other items.
To scan, start by launching a browser on your mobile device and log into your Inventory account at the appropriate regional server and from the main Inventory page, tap on the Camera icon near the search menu. If prompted, allow the application to access your camera. This will activate the scanning feature on the device where you can then scan the QR code. If the camera does not load or appears blank check device permissions and settings.
Scan QR Codes Created Outside of LabArchives Inventory
If a custom QR code was created outside of Inventory using your printer software and includes the Item URL, the QR Code can be scanned using a native QR Code scanner app on your device or directly through your camera.
To scan, start by launching a browser on your mobile device and log into your Inventory account at the appropriate regional server. Open your camera app on the mobile device and hover over the QR code. Follow the prompts to open the URL. You'll then be taken directly to the Item view in Inventory.
Tips for successful QR Code Scanning:
In some cases, the QR Code could be difficult to scan especially if the QR code has been damaged or if it is printed incorrectly. Below are some recommendations to help improve QR Code Scanning.
- Test the label before adding it to the item
- Ensure the printer is accurate and calibrated
- Ensure the QR Code is large enough to be scanned
- Ensure that the QR Code is not cutoff or too close to the edge of the label
- Ensure that the label is flat, it can be difficult to scan on curved bottles
- Ensure you have good lighting and that the camera and item are steady
Barcode Scanning
There are many different types of barcodes and barcode scanners. In general, the barcode represents a string of characters representing an item ID. The barcode scanner allows someone to quickly scan this ID and type the value into a computer. In some cases, you may have prelabeled items that contain a barcode or items that have a unique numeric ID.
Creating the Item in LabArchives Inventory that contains details about a barcode
If using the Import Items template to bulk upload multiple items, details about the item can be added directly to the template such as the item name, quantity, and location. In a field on the template spreadsheet, place the cursor in the cell, and scan the barcode using the barcode scanner. This will add the value that the barcode represents directly to the cell. Repeat for each item. Visit Bulk Import of Items to learn more about using the template.
If adding items one at a time into Inventory, place the cursor into the field where you would like the value added and scan the item. After the value is added, click Save.
Searching for the Item in LabArchives Inventory
LabArchives Inventory includes a robust search engine that can search across all the item fields including custom fields.
A barcode can also be scanned and the value added directly to the Inventory Search menu by placing the cursor in the search box and scanning the barcode. This will add the value into the search box and from there the search can be executed to locate the item in Inventory. Visit Search and Locate Items to learn more about using the search menu in Inventory.